LANGLEY, B.C. – Rookie Eric Kim scored the lone goal of the match in the 62^nd minute as the UBC Thunderbirds secured a 1-0 victory over the host Trinity Western Spartans Friday night at Chase Office Field.

Bennett McKay made five saves for his eighth clean sheet and 11^th win of the season while TWU's Jordan Marwood took the loss in goal with two saves.

The Spartans held the edge in shots, shots on target and corners but weren't able to make good on a number of opportunities.

"I'm happy to get the win and another clean sheet," said UBC head coach Mike Mosher following the penultimate game of the regular season. "I'm really pleased for a guy like Eric Kim to get the big winning goal. He's battled a few injuries along the way but has persevered and worked really hard despite challenges, so you're always pleased for guys who work through things."

Kim's goal came off a Thunderbirds a counterattack. Thomas Pena took the ball up the left side of the park and sent a low pass across the Spartans' penalty area. Kim took the pass in the centre of the box and put the ball past the TWU defender and into the left side of the net to put UBC up 1-0.


 
Over the final five minutes and stoppage time, the Spartans had four corner kicks and five shots, including two by second-year forward Keishean Francois, but they were unable to tie the match up as the Thunderbirds held on for the win.

"At the back we weathered the storm late with numerous corners and free kicks, but Bennett stood strong in there and helped get us across the line."
 
Having already locked up first in the Pacific Division, the T-Birds conclude the regular season Sunday afternoon in Abbotsford when they battle the Fraser Valley Timberwolves. Kickoff is set for 1:00 p.m. and the game will be streamed live on Canada West TV.